Editorial
The fight against breast cancer is still on …be prepared to support it
In view of the threatening nature of breast cancer and the death it can cause to human lives, there is the need to regularly educate people about the disease.
We need to report cases of cancer early to the hospitals. This is the general advice given to the public, so that they can be attended to in time.
However, there have been cases where some doctors are not able to diagnose the disease early enough due to unavailability of required medical equipment to do so.
The Spectator, therefore, appeals to all health workers to put in their best, even in the face of challenges, to bring the situation under control.
Diagnosing disease, particularly cancer of any form, is not an easy task. For this reason, the public must bear with our medical staff.
At the same time, members of the public must also do their best to follow medical advice and report all breast cancer cases early.
This is how we can all help to bring the increasing number of breast cancer cases globally, and in Ghana in particular, under control.
Breast Cancer has become one of the medical challenges the world is confronted with today. Research has shown that it occurs mostly in women and rarely in men. According to the American Cancer Society, less than one per cent of all breast cancer cases occurs in men.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) Report revealed that, more than 685, 000 women died from breast cancer in 2020 and in the same year, 2.3 million women were diagnosed with the disease, making it the world’s most widespread cancer.
In Ghana, the story is not different. Statistics carried by the Global Cancer Observatory website in March 2021, showed that 4,482 women in Ghana were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. In the same year, it said 2,055 deaths were recorded.
In fact, it is estimated that 4,650 women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually in Ghana while more than 2,000 women die of the disease yearly.
These statistics buttress the fact that breast cancer is higher among women, which gives credence to the sensitivity of the disease towards women.
It is for this reason, The Spectator, Your Weekend Companion, is leading a month-long breast cancer campaign to create awareness on the dangers of the disease to women in particular, who coincidentally align with the brand personality of the newspaper.
As we draw the attention of the public to the issue of breast cancer, let us not panic but be bold enough to take preventive measures that will make us stay good and enjoy long life.
This is the surest way to overcome breast cancer as well as other types of cancer in our lives.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
